Broadside by Isaac Broome

Broadside

Isaac Broome · 1873

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“This 1873 broadside offers a direct glimpse into 19th-century public communication, showcasing how essential information was conveyed through large, eye-catching printed sheets designed for immediate impact.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This broadside, a large printed sheet meant for public display, confronts us with a stark visual message. Printed in 1873, it likely served as an advertisement or a public announcement, its bold typography and layout designed to capture immediate attention. The medium of paper, common for such ephemeral works, allowed for widespread distribution and impact in its time. While the specific content of this broadside is not detailed in its title, its very existence speaks to a period when printed matter was a primary means of mass communication, before the advent of more sophisticated media. The size of the sheet, nearly 17 by 22 inches, suggests it was intended to be easily legible from a distance, perhaps tacked to a wall or a post in a busy urban setting. This piece offers a tangible link to the daily information landscape of the late 19th century.

DETAILS
Artist
Isaac Broome
Date
1873
Medium
Paper
Location
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Dimensions
16 7/8 x 22 in. (42.9 x 55.9 cm)
Collection
The American Wing
Culture
American
Credit line
Gift of Barbara Goldberg, in memory of David J. Goldberg, 2005
LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Broadside
01

Observe the bold, varied typefaces used to emphasize different parts of the message.

02

Note the overall layout, designed for quick comprehension by passersby.

03

Consider the paper's texture and any signs of its original public display.

04

Imagine where this broadside might have been posted in 1873.

AUDIO DEEP DIVE

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THE ARTIST

Isaac Broome

1836–1922 · United States

Canadian-born sculptor who shaped America's Centennial with patriotic porcelain busts and decorative reliefs.

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